Part of: Maharashtra Gk set 27

The temple of ..... near Bombay is larger than Elephanta.

Category: Maharashtra Gk

Hint: Consider the size and historical significance of temples near Bombay.

Correct Answer: A) Jogesvari

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The question pertains to the size comparison between the Jogesvari Temple and the Elephanta Caves, both of which are significant religious and historical sites in the state of Maharashtra, India. The Jogesvari Temple, located in the suburb of Jogeswari in Mumbai, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Jogesvari, an incarnation of Parvati. This temple is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

The Elephanta Caves, on the other hand, are a set of cave temples located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour. These caves are known for their rock-cut stone sculptures and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the Elephanta Caves are a significant cultural and historical landmark, they are not a single temple but a collection of caves with intricate carvings and sculptures.

The Jogesvari Temple, being a larger and more expansive structure, surpasses the Elephanta Caves in terms of size. The temple complex includes a main shrine, smaller shrines, and a large courtyard. The temple's architecture is a blend of the Nagara and Dravidian styles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

It is important to note that while the Elephanta Caves are a remarkable site, they are not a single temple but a series of caves with significant religious and artistic value. The Jogesvari Temple, being a larger and more comprehensive structure, is the correct answer to the question of which temple near Bombay is larger than the Elephanta Caves.

Understanding the historical and architectural context of these sites is crucial for correctly identifying the larger structure. The Jogesvari Temple's size and grandeur make it a notable landmark in the region, and its comparison to the Elephanta Caves highlights the diversity of religious and cultural sites in Maharashtra.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. The Jogesvari Temple is indeed larger than the Elephanta Caves, which are a set of cave temples located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour. The Jogesvari Temple is a significant landmark in the region and is known for its size and architectural beauty.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The term "Siva" is too vague and does not refer to a specific temple near Bombay that is larger than the Elephanta Caves. The Jogesvari Temple is the specific temple being referred to in the question.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Since the Jogesvari Temple is the specific temple larger than the Elephanta Caves, the option "Either (A) or (B)" is not accurate. The correct answer is specifically the Jogesvari Temple.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The Jogesvari Temple is indeed larger than the Elephanta Caves, so the statement "Neither (A) nor (B)" is not correct. The Jogesvari Temple is the correct answer.

Mnemonic: J for Jogesvari, J for Just larger

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